Face Mask Therapy and Rapid Maxillary Expansion on Blood Oxygen Levels in Class III Malocclusion

This study focuses on the effects of using a face mask therapy combined with rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in children with a specific dental issue called Class III malocclusion. This condition occurs when the upper jaw is too far back or the lower jaw is too far forward, or both. The therapy aims to encourage the forward growth of the upper jaw, helping to realign the teeth and improve the bite. The study is important because it examines how this treatment might also impact blood oxygen levels and breathing, especially since mouth breathing is common in people with this condition and can affect overall respiratory health. Participants in the study will undergo treatment involving the use of a face mask appliance, which applies gentle pressure to move the upper jaw forward. This treatment is often paired with RME to enhance the outcome. The study will monitor changes in the dental alignment and airway spaces, as well as measure blood oxygen levels using a device called a pulse oximeter. This device uses light to determine how much oxygen is in the blood, providing insights into how the treatment affects breathing. The potential benefits of the study could include improved dental alignment, better breathing, and a better understanding of how these factors are connected.